unnatural dry skin -treating it properly

The appearance of the skin can have a significant impact on a person's aesthetic appeal. Since the skin is the body's largest organ, it's important that you take the time to care for your skin properly. 

Laser skin resurfacing is a unique cosmetic dermatological procedure that can help you reverse the signs of aging. Lines and wrinkles, discoloration, sagging, and rough skin texture are just a few of the issues that laser skin resurfacing can address.

How long your results last will depend on how well you follow your doctor's protocol after laser skin resurfacing treatment. Here are three things that you should avoid in order to enhance the effectiveness of your next procedure.

1. Exercise

Your doctor will probably advise you to avoid the gym for a few days following your laser skin resurfacing procedure. Strenuous exercise can cause your face to begin sweating. Sweat has the potential to irritate your treated skin, which can lead to excessive itching and discomfort. If you feel like you do need to engage in physical activity, limit yourself to low-impact activities like walking or yoga.

2. Picking

Laser resurfacing essentially eliminates the outermost layer of skin to allow new and more youthful skin cells to emerge. It is perfectly normal for your treated skin to begin crusting over and then flaking off as the healing process progresses. Many people are tempted to pick at this crusting or flaking, but picking should be avoided at all costs. Removing the crusting or flaking skin before it is ready to naturally slough off could result in scarring. Picking also has the potential to cause your treated skin to become infected. Allow your skin to regenerate naturally and avoid picking at it while it heals to preserve the results of your procedure.

3. Sun Exposure

You will want to plan your laser skin resurfacing appointment during a time period when you can stay indoors. The new skin cells that emerge following laser skin resurfacing treatment are extremely sensitive to the sun. These new cells are more susceptible to sun damage, which means you could undo all of the good that laser skin resurfacing provides if you go out in the sun too soon after your procedure.

Your doctor will let you know how long you should avoid sun exposure, and you should be sure to invest in a quality sunscreen to protect your fresh skin cells once your doctor gives you the ok to spend time outdoors again.

Contact a local cosmetic dermatologist to learn more.